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Surviving My Commute

If you’ve ever had a conversation with me over the past year I’ve probably complained about my commute to you. Sorry, that is probably annoying. In all seriousness though, with winter approaching, my commute is only going to get longer. I’ve been trying different things to try to make it more enjoyable, and no, getting up before the rest of the world to get to work at an insanely early time is not an option.

I realized one of my biggest complaints was losing 1.5 – 2 hours a day when I could really use that time towards something more productive. Plus, I found myself getting more frustrated and distracted while driving. Flash back to car accident this fall. That is when I decided to start listening to audiobooks. I have reserved my commute time for nonfiction, professional development, or some type of book or program I can learn from. And let me tell ya, it has been a game changer.

With that said, I’d like to share a few titles I have enjoyed since starting this new commuting activity.

1. #GIRLBOSS – Written by Sohpia Amoruso, founder and CEO of NastyGal, had a refreshing perspective about being an entrepreneur and basically kicking ass in business. She often swears, tells it how it is, and overall inspires you to try harder and just go for it.

2. Lean In – This has been my favorite so far, and I will probably listen to it again in the new year. What I love about this book, written by COO of Facebook, Sheryl Sandberg, is her support for women in top leadership positions throughout all areas of business. I’ve read different articles and blog posts that go against the idea of “leaning in” but with everything you have to do what works for you. For me, I really identified with her message especially as I prepare to be a working mother. If you are interested, check out her TED Talk as well.

3. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks – Oh my gosh, soooo good! I was supposed to read this for book club but never got around to it. To be honest, I think reading the book could have put me to sleep, but the audio version was perfect and I actually looked forward to my commute. Written by Rebecca Skloot, she tells an often forgotten story that has greatly influenced the world of medicine.

4. The Chalene Show – This is a Podcast by fitness celebrity and motivational speaker, Chalene Johnson. I’ve always been a fan of hers and a friend kept telling me I needed to check it out. I downloaded it awhile ago, but hadn’t listened too much since I had so many good books lined up. This past week I really dove in and got to listen to quite a few episodes. She focuses on fitness and nutrition, business, motivation, and pretty much everything else you can think of that you’d want to hear about!

5. Required Texts for School – I have also found that some of the required books for grad school can be downloaded in audio version. Talk about a time saver!!! My most recent Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely. I’ll be honest, when I first started to listen I was bored, but then all of a sudden it became applicable to everyday life as he explained his studies in behavioral economics. I look forward to seeing what else I can listen to for school.

If you have any suggestions for me please let me know. I have all the time in the world, literally, for about 1.5 – 2 hours per day.